Sharon C. Siegel, D.D.S., professor at NSU’s College of Dental Medicine, is featured in a new book commemorating the pioneer and leadership roles of women in prosthodontics. Prosthodontists are specialists who focus on the restoration and replacement of missing teeth and oral/facial structures with natural, esthetic, and functional replacements.

The online book, Women in Prosthodontics, is a compilation of essays and reflections, biographies, interviews, and the history of milestones and first-hand accounts from women pioneers, leaders, and inspirers in the field, including Siegel.

The book is a joint venture supported by the American College of Prosthodontists and dental device manufacturer Dentsply Sirona and Straumann. Siegel is one of five women prosthodontists in the book who is the chair of a dental school prosthodontics department. In addition, there are three associate deans/prosthodontists, and seven women who are the directors of prosthodontics programs.

“Many of us contributed the story of our journey toward our leadership roles in dentistry,” said Siegel, whose essay offers encouragement to other women.

“The advice I have for other women entering the specialty of prosthodontics is that it is difficult and challenging, but so fulfilling. Women should be encouraged to know that they can be successful in this area of dentistry that at one time was very male dominated…Women can shape the face of our specialty.”

Siegel completed her undergraduate studies at Western Maryland College and her D.D.S. degree, certificate in prosthodontics, and a Master of Science degree in Oral Biology at the University of Maryland. She completed a general practice residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and served as a general dentist in the U.S. Army Dental Corps in Baumholder, Germany, for two years.

Prior to coming to NSU in 2003, where she serves as the chair of the Department of Prosthodontics, Siegel taught at the University of Maryland. She recently earned a M.B.A. degree from NSU’s H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

Siegel has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed articles and six book chapters. She is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists, and the 2015 winner of the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award from the American Association of Women Dentists.